Stoney Island

Cross-country skiing photo

Stoney Island

The Conservation Area has reopened, but trail and forest remediation is ongoing. Please exercise caution while enjoying the property!

Update: December 20th, 2024

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is pleased to announce that the Stoney Island Conservation Area property has reopened, and many trails are ready for public use. The trails are currently ungroomed and are open for everyone to enjoy.

Please note that with the recent temperature fluctuations, some trails may be very muddy. We encourage visitors to dress appropriately and use caution while exploring the area.

Snowshoers, hikers, dog walkers, fat bikers, skiers and all nature enthusiasts are welcome to explore the trails. This is a great opportunity to experience the area in new ways and enjoy its natural beauty during the winter months.

The reopening follows the completion of the ash tree removal project this fall, undertaken to address severe emerald ash borer infestation. This work was essential to ensure the continued use of the area as a recreational space. Forest and trail remediation work is ongoing. Visitors are encouraged to tread carefully, as the trails may still show signs of restoration work.

"Sharing our conservation lands with the public allows people of all ages to connect with nature. It’s a wonderful way to inspire the next generation to care for and protect the environment.”

– Donna Lacey, Manager of Forestry and Lands, SVCA

To ensure a positive experience for all, please practice good trail-sharing etiquette: yield to others as needed, stay aware of your surroundings, and stick to open trails to protect the natural environment.

Per the Conservation Authorities Act, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times on all SVCA properties. This helps protect wildlife and ensures the safety and comfort of other trail users. SVCA reminds visitors that off-road motor vehicles are strictly prohibited on all Conservation Authority owned lands.

There are many bird watching opportunities from spring to fall at Stoney Island Conservation Area.

In winter, the trails are reserved for cross-country skiing and 5 km of snowshoe trails.

There are several creeks running through this property and are traversed by hand-crafted bridges.

The following links provide more information on Stoney Island Conservation Area.

Location

GPS 44.2261,-81.6058
Stoney Island Conservation Area is located 5 km (3 miles) north of Kincardine Hospital on the west side of County Road 23 (the "B" line).

Recreational trails

Over 6 km of all-season recreational trails.
Used for walking, jogging, cycling, skiing and snowshoeing.
The Kincardine Cross-Country Ski Club maintains the trails.
This is a not-for-profit club run by volunteers who share the work on trail improvements.
Please note that skiers have the right of way on the trails.
Hikers must stay to the side of groomed ski trails.
Recreational Trail Map

Fishing

There are no fishing opportunities at this property.
Visit our Fishing page for more information.

Hunting

Hunting is NOT permitted on this property.
Visit our Hunting page for more information.

Fees

There is a $5.00 parking fee to access Stoney Island.

Pay Day Use Parking Fees Online:
Pay for single vehicle one day parking at any Saugeen Conservation Area: click here.
Pay for single vehicle annual parking at any Saugeen Conservation Area: click here.

Amenities

There are no facilities on this property.

History

SVCA bought his 40 ha (98 acres) property in 1977. It is a 5 minute drive from Kincardine.
While you visit, see if you can solve the great disappearing island mystery. The Conservation Area's namesake does exist, but where?
Captain Duncan Rowan travelled to a small natural harbour in Kincardine township in 1849. A small island and a shoal created this harbour. The location is south of the present day Stoney Island Conservation Area.

The little community named Port Head, had a good sized steam sawmill and a post office.
A mighty gale demolished the island in 1857.
After this storm, the island disappeared. The mill was closed in 1858.

Stoney Island is a Conservation Area and Managed Forest property.